To schedule an appointment, or for more information, call the UPMC Liver Cancer Center, toll-free, at 1-855-74-LIVER or complete our contact form now.

Diagnosing Cholangiocarcinoma

Symptoms of cholangiocarcinoma

Symptoms of a bile duct tumor are similar to those of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), or advanced primary liver cancer, and may include:

Abdominal pain

Abdominal swelling or mass

Fatigue

Fluid in the abdomen

New onset jaundice (yellowish coloring of the skin that results from excess bile)

Weight loss

Testing for cholangiocarcinoma

In addition to a physical exam, your doctor may order several tests to evaluate:

The extent and location of the tumor

The tumor's proximity to major hepatic (liver) blood vessels

Whether the tumor is spreading

The quality of liver function

These tests may include:

Imaging studies

A CT scan may show a dilated bile duct, indicating the presence of a tumor.

Blood tests

Blood tests will measure bilirubin levels to help determine whether a tumor is blocking the bile duct.

Bilirubin is the product responsible for the yellow color of bile and urine.

If tests indicate increased bilirubin and duct obstruction, specialists may place a stent, or tube, in the duct to relieve the blockage. As a result of this procedure, bilirubin levels should return to normal.

UPMC’s liver surgeons are among the most experienced in the United States at minimally invasive liver surgery, which is performed through three or four small incisions in the abdomen. We perform this technique whenever possible to reduce pain, scarring, and recovery time.

Therapies for bile duct cancer

If your tumor is too large to be removed by surgery, the UPMC Liver Cancer Center offers innovative therapies to:

Help shrink the tumor so surgery is possible

Manage your liver disease and extend your life

To schedule an appointment, or for more information, call the UPMC Liver Cancer Center, toll-free, at 1-855-74-LIVER or complete our contact form now.

For help in finding a doctor or health service that suits your needs, call the UPMC Referral Service at 412-647-UPMC (8762) or 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). Select option 1.

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